On June 1, 2025, a new law came into force in Russia that prohibits government agencies, banks, and telecom operators from using foreign messengers. The restrictions also apply to large aggregators and Internet platforms with an audience of more than 500,000 users per day.
Officials are prohibited from transmitting payment documents and personal data of citizens via Telegram, WhatsApp, and other foreign messengers (the list is available from Roskomnadzor). The decision is aimed at protecting data and reducing dependence on foreign technologies.
Sergey Boyarsky, Chairman of the State Duma Committee on Information Policy, previously emphasized that Western messengers can continue their activities in Russia if they fully comply with the laws.
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